You are here

Christian response

My WMU friend Betty was working a feeding unit in response to wildfires one year. Officials came to the line to tell another volunteer who was working with her that they did all they could but the wildfires took his home. Other volunteers took up $200 to give him. The man lost everything. Instead of spending the money on himself, the gentleman took the money and bought gift cards to give away at the shelter.

Others found out he had lost his home and gave more money. This time, he decided to go ahead and buy something for himself. He lost his home and his chicken coop, but he still had a few chickens. He told Betty, in almost an apologetic tone, “With the money, I bought two tents—one for me to live in and one for a family at the shelter. And I hope it is OK that I bought some feed for my chickens.”

What a beautiful picture of what it means to be a loving Christian. Committed Christ followers love God and love others as much or more as they love themselves. Through WMU, we seek to nurture that kind of attitude of sacrifice and generosity. Always buy two tents. Take care of your family, absolutely. Yet be ready to help as others have needs.